TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
Tucson was hit by a haboob, or large dust storm today, affecting air quality, travel and outdoor events.
The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality advisory because of elevated levels of particulate matter.
Individuals with heart disease and respiratory sensitivities may wish to reduce exposure to outside air this afternoon and tonight.
The Arizona Department of Transportation is warning drivers to take extra precaution as strong winds can cause sudden periods of limited or zero visibility. ADOT said Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson as well as Tucson and the New Mexico state line are likely to experience dangerous conditions.
If you are driving when a dust storm hits, safely pull off the road and turn off your lights. Do not drive until it is safe to do so.
Two Southwest Airlines flights out of Tucson have been delayed. One was headed to Chicago, the other to Albuquerque.
The dust is moved north from the south, through the heart of the city.
If you can safely send us pictures, upload them at pics.tucsonnewsnow.com or email them to pics@tucsonnewsnow.com.
The Tucson Police Department Memorial for fallen officers, which was originally an outdoor event at TPD headquarters, has been moved to the Tucson Convention Center because of the weather. The event starts at 7 p.m.
Stay on top of the weather story at Tucson News Now's weather page or download our weather app.
Copyright 2012 Tucson News Now. All rights reserved.